1. Place tomatoes and 1/4 cup of water in the food processor and pulse until you achieve the consistency that you enjoy, chunky or smooth. My family and I prefer middle of the road. If you don't have a food processor, just smash 'em with a potato masher.

2. Place processed tomatoes in small sauce pan and add the remaining ingredients.

3. Bring the sauce to a simmer, cover and cook for approximately 20 minutes.

4. Serve over pasta, chicken Parmesan, or anything else that suits your fancy, be sure to remove the bay leaf or yuck!

* May substitute a 14.5 ounce can of diced tomatoes.** When using fresh herbs, use 2-3 times the amount listed, to taste.

This recipe will serve 3-4 folks. If you need more, just double or triple the recipe. Buon appetito!